In a striking admission, prominent conservative voice Ben Shapiro has aligned with a growing number of Republicans forecasting significant electoral challenges for their party in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections. During a conversation with California's Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, Shapiro conceded the GOP should brace for a difficult fight.
A Candid Admission on the Airwaves
The prediction came during a rapid-fire question segment on Shapiro's Thursday podcast episode, where Governor Newsom took the reins. Newsom pointedly asked if Republicans stood any chance in the midterms. Shapiro's response was blunt. He stated the Republican Party is "in for a world of hurt" as the incumbent party holding a bare majority, a position he said inherently puts them at a disadvantage.
Shapiro elaborated that extensive redistricting has left few competitive congressional districts, and those that remain appear to be shifting toward the Democrats. The commentator also agreed with Newsom that the GOP's opposition to extending Affordable Care Act subsidies during last year's government shutdown was "obviously" a "political loser" for the party.
The Trump Factor and Policy Critiques
Adding to the predicted challenges, Shapiro noted the 2026 midterms will be harder for Republicans because former President Donald Trump "isn't on the ballot." Trump himself has previously used this reasoning after Democratic victories in off-year elections. Shapiro's relationship with Trump has been complex; he vowed never to vote for him in 2016, criticizing him harshly, but later endorsed him in 2020 and 2024.
During the same podcast, Shapiro did not shy away from criticizing specific Trump policies. He questioned the practicality of Trump's proposed mass deportation agenda, suggesting it was "in practicality, probably not fulfillable." He also criticized Trump's tariff policies and dismissed the idea of annexing Greenland as "silly," a notion that has caused genuine concern among Greenland's officials and citizens.
A Chorus of Conservative Concern
Shapiro is not a lone voice in expressing apprehension about the GOP's future prospects. His warnings echo concerns voiced by other high-profile conservatives, indicating a broader anxiety within the party's ranks. Notable figures who have shared similar sentiments include:
- Fox News host Laura Ingraham
- Former Fox News commentator Bill O'Reilly
- Republican strategist Karl Rove
This collective caution from within the conservative media and strategy sphere points to a recognition of the steep climb Republicans face to maintain power in Congress, setting the stage for a contentious and closely watched election cycle in 2026.
